AIFF issues show cause notice to FC Goa regarding ISL final fiasco

Panaji: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has issued a show cause notice to FC Goa, asking them to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against them for the fracas after their defeat to Chennaiyin FC in the final of ISL on December 20.

In a letter to FC Goa yesterday, the AIFF charged the Goan franchise as well as individuals separately and have asked them to file a reply before January 8. FC Goa have been charged under article 53 of AIFF disciplinary code (team misconduct), under 58 (offensive behaviour), article 60 (threats), according to federation sources.

Soon after the final whistle was blown, many FC Goa substitute players and officials led by Rajesh Malgi, equipment manger of FC Goa, rushed to the referee, surrounded him and tried to intimidate. Referees (all from Japan) were abused in filthy language and were threatened with physical assault, AIFF sources said.

The letter also says FC Goa's decision to boycott the prize distribution ceremony had brought disrepute to the game and was liable for action under article 22.2 of the ISL regulations. Article 22.2 deals with any action that brings disrepute to ISL, IMGR/FSDL, AIFF and have separately asked FC Goa President Dattaraj Salgaocar for an explanation.

"Dataraj Salgaocar of FC Goa engaged in public criticism of ISL/AIFF and match officials and alleged match fixing in the media," stated the AIFF notice.